This project will combat carbon emission and boost local livelihoods

Neten Dorji

Trashigang— The Bhutan Ecological Society (BES) has set a bold goal to plant 10 million trees by 2030.

This initiative, announced at a recent workshop in Trashigang with local leaders, Agriculture and Livestock Officers and Officials from Department of Forest from eastern Bhutan, aims to revive barren land, enhance local livelihoods, and bolster Bhutan’s resilience to climate change.

The director of Forest and Water at BES, Dr Norbu Wangdi, said that the tree-planting campaign will significantly benefit both the environment and the economy. “By capturing carbon and utilising recycled wastewater, these trees will not only support our climate goals but also produce valuable fruit and wild resources,” he said.

The initiative is divided into two phases. In the first phase, five million trees will be planted between 2025 and 2027, and the remaining five million trees will be planted in the second phase of the project from 2028 to 2030.

“We are not forcing farmers to plant fruit trees,” Dr Norbu Wangdi said. “We are encouraging farmers who want to grow more fruit trees on their land, offering them a new source of income.”

Tree samplings will be provided free of cost to farmers and interested individuals

The trees will be provided free of cost to farmers and interested individuals.

While the programme has been met with enthusiasm, local leaders have raised practical concerns.

Yangner Gup Dupthob highlighted the challenge of marketing the fruit once the trees mature. “Farmers are eager to plant fruit trees if they can find buyers for their produce,” he said, stressing the need for effective market strategies.

Toedtsho Gup Dechen Wangdi said that planting trees could help reclaim unused land in his area, which is increasing every year.  “With the rising tax on fallow land, farmers are motivated to plant fruit trees. I also plan to help farmers by providing fencing for those interested in planting fruit trees at large scale.”

The BES has already planted 807,819 trees under the Million Tree Project, including 416,141 fruit trees and 486,251 wild trees.

Officials said that they are focusing more on six eastern dzongkhag because there is more fallow land and more empty households (goongtongs).

The tree-planting effort also aligns with Bhutan’s broader carbon management strategies. Research indicates that a three-year-old tree can absorb around 10 kilogrammes of carbon dioxide annually. Given that each person generates about one tonne of carbon over a lifetime, this initiative has the potential to make a significant impact.

In addition to environmental benefits, the BES is exploring the possibility of carbon credit trading, which could provide additional income for tree growers. “We’re not just planting trees but we are also looking at how we can trade carbon credits with other countries. By planting more trees, we can access carbon financing to support restoration projects and other needs,” Dr Norbu Wangdi said.

The programme is also designed to help Bhutan maintain its forest coverage above 70 percent, enhance ecological conservation, and provide long-term economic benefits.

“To combat human-wildlife conflict and restore degraded forest land, we will also be planting both wild and fruit trees that are well-suited to the local climate,”he said.

Meanwhile, as part of carbon trading, the BES is also planning to roll out 10,000 units of sistema biogas by 2026. Sistema biogas has already installed over 10 bio-digester units in western dzongkhags, which is quite significant, according to the BES officials.

“The carbon credit mechanism will help farmers earn additional money besides using clean energy. Internationally recognized organisations like Gold Standard and UNFCCC register carbon programmes,” said a BES  official. “We can also propose for carbon credit installing biogas plants that will reduce tonnes of CO2 annually by replacing LPG and firewood usage.”

KP Sharma

To mark 50 years of tourism in Bhutan and strengthen cultural ties between Bhutan and Thailand, the Department of Tourism (DoT) and Chundu Travels organised a cultural exhibition in Paro yesterday.

The event featured a collaboration between Chuni Dorji Prive and SARRAN, showcasing 12 models in a unique blend of Bhutanese and Thai cultural designs and ornaments.

The exhibition was led by two jewellers, one from Bhutan and the other from Thailand, who aims to preserve their distinct cultures in modern times.

SARRAN is art-to-wear mastery of pieces by visionary artitst, Sarran Youkongdee of Thailand.

Bleu Dorji, one of the event coordinators and designers from Bhutan, highlighted Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage as the motivating factor to host the event. “Although Bhutan has so much to show to the world in terms of its unique culture, sometimes things turn out differently.”

She added that the platform provided an opportunity for her Thai counterpart to share his passion in the cultural field, helping build strong people-to-people connections over time.

Bleu Dorji described the exhibition as the result of long-term planning and a dream come true.

“The artist has a deep interest and passion for Bhutanese culture, and when we first started discussing the event, Sarran showed immediate interest in Bhutanese crafts,” she said.

She further stated that the collaboration would continue in Thailand in the coming months, with plans to explore other avenues thereafter.

The Thai designer, Sarran, expressed his commitment to creating platforms for women through such exhibitions.

“Women are usually left behind by the community, and most platforms are for men. Being raised by a single mother and sisters, I dedicate my passion to creating bigger platforms for women,” he said.

Sarran also highlighted the importance of celebrating Asian culture and building stronger partnerships to preserve it.

Explaining his decision to collaborate with Bhutan, Sarran said that Bhutanese culture and tradition are unique and this collaboration also helps boost tourism in Bhutan. “This is the first collaboration, and a lot of collections from Thailand have been fused with Bhutanese fashion.”

He praised Bhutan’s efforts to preserve its culture in an era of modernisation. “We don’t see culture being preserved like the way it is done in Bhutan.”

Sarran hopes to help countries preserve their culture and crafts by blending them with modern fashion to appeal to contemporary audiences.

The event was attended by Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay and other officials from the tourism and related industries.

The Dragon Boys lost 4-1 to Nepal team in the penalty shoot out

Thinley Namgay

Bhutan’s under-20 men’s national football team is out of the ongoing SAFF 2024 U-20 Championship in Nepal having lost 4-1 in the semifinal against host country, Nepal.

Despite maintaining a score of 1-1 until the regulation time against the host Nepal, it was hard luck for the Dragon Boys at the semifinals yesterday. Bhutan lost in the  crucial penalty shoot-out,  4-1.

Although the Nepal team was backed by the home crowd, Bhutan played confidently. The Dragon Boys demonstrated skillful play, precise passing, and solid team spirit until the last minute.

Neither team could find the net in the first half.   However, Bhutan broke the deadlock in the 57th minute when midfielder Jitsuen Dorji scored a stunning long-range goal.

The opponent equalised in the last 13 minutes of the game, three minutes  after striker Kinzang Tenzin left the pitch following a red card.

Losing a crucial player Kinzang Tenzin at a defining moment put the Dragon Boys in an uncomfortable situation. Down to 10 men and pressed against by the opponent, the Dragon Boys left no stone unturned to defend their post. 

Nepal will play the final on August 28 against either India or Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh will play in the semifinals today.

Bhutan played a decisive game against all three teams – India, the Maldives and Nepal.  The team lost to India 1-0 after a highly competitive game.  Bhutan dominated the match against the Maldives and won 2-1.

Captained by Pema Zangpo, the good performance of Bhutan at the SAFF 2024 Championship also reflects the gradual coming age of Bhutanese football.

Bhutan mostly resorted to attacking games this time. Football enthusiasts said that the few red cards Bhutan received in this tournament could be due to the change in game tactics.

YK Poudel

The National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) is facing challenges due to outdated infrastructure and limited capabilities, and addressing these issues will require an investment of USD 14.9 million over the next five years.

A recent report, titled ‘Institutional Strengthening and Modernisation of Hydromet and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Services in Bhutan for 2024–2034’, prepared in collaboration with the World Bank, outlines the need for modernisation to tackle several critical issues faced by the NCHM.

Established in 2016, the NCHM is an autonomous scientific and technical agency responsible for hydrology, meteorology, and cryosphere science and services. However, the NCHM has struggled with significant challenges due to the absence of synoptic-standard meteorological stations, frequent disruptions in automatic weather stations, and insufficient global atmospheric monitoring capabilities.

In addition, the lack of trained technical professionals, inadequate ICT infrastructure, and the absence of supportive legislation have further hindered the effective delivery of its hydromet services.

Currently, Bhutan has 169 weather stations, of which 80 are automatic and are prone to frequent interruptions of service mainly due to challenges in communication and network connectivity.

“There are no global atmospheric watch stations in the country,” the roadmap states, revealing a major gap in Bhutan’s meteorological capabilities.

Further, many weather stations are situated in areas with weak internet connectivity, hindering their effectiveness. The NCHM’s current forecasting is limited to deterministic models, lacking the ability to produce probability forecasts.

To address these gaps, the NCHM plans to integrate flood forecasting into its early warning system to provide more advanced and timely warnings. However, the agency currently lacks the capacity for regional climate research and operational climate forecasting.

The roadmap outlines a medium-term modernisation plan with an estimated cost of USD 20 million, which includes both operational and management expenses. This investment is crucial for developing advanced capabilities to provide accurate data, forecasts, and warnings, thereby enhancing public safety and supporting Bhutan’s economic development.

The country’s glacial landscape is another area of concern. Constituting 10 percent of the country’s land in the 1980s, these glacier regions play a crucial role as a renewable water source for rivers. This region also requires regular inventory updates to monitor environmental changes and potential hazards effectively.

Bhutan Glacial Inventory 2018 identified 700 glaciers covering 630 square kilometres, representing 1.64 percent of the country’s land area.

The inventory also lists 3,027 high-altitude lakes, of which 17 are flagged as  potentially dangerous for glacial lake outburst floods.

According to the 2021 inventory, there are 567 glacial lakes covering 55.04 square kilometres, all of which fall between 4,062 and 5,507 metres above sea level, with larger glacial lakes located between the elevation of 5,000 and 5,200 metres above sea level.

In the 13th Plan, the NCHM has been allocated a total budget of Nu 1,704.6 million, of which a large chunk will be used for the construction of weather centres and communication facilities across the country to enhance weather data collection and dissemination.

These facilities will also support ecologically balanced sustainable development and protect lives and properties and avert economic loss.

Between 2018 and 2023, the NCHM established 289 national hydromet observational networks with a funding pool of Nu 926.74 million from government and donor sources.

The NCHM provides timely weather and flood warnings, advisories, and public awareness efforts to mitigate hydrometeorological and cryosphere-related disasters.

The Dungkar Dzong in Pangbisa, Paro, is a vivid living monument to the era of transformation in Bhutan. The structure represents Bhutan’s architectural splendour at its best. In function, it is an icon of change, an expression of times to come. The concept is an ingenuous demonstration of how a proud past welcomes an exciting future.

Across Bhutan, majestic dzongs silhouette the skyline or strategically command inhabited valleys. Such monuments embody the myth that is Bhutanese history, representing a civilisation that is solid in foundation, unique in identity. As landmarks, they are very Bhutanese – historically significant, mythological in image, spiritually revered.

These monastic fortresses of the past are still foundations of Bhutan’s sovereignty, housing the monastic order and the government; they stand as strong pillars of spiritual and cultural heritage, governance, and learning.

Today, the Dungkar Dzong, an inspired vision of His Majesty The King, is already a milestone that gives Bhutanese legend and reality a new sense of time and place. The traditional magnificence of the structure encases a culture of education, innovation, skills, and technology of the 21st century. Built on a spur overlooking Paro, the Dungkar Dzong is not just a reminder of Bhutanese history but a setting for Bhutan to step onto the wider global space.

Pangbisa

Pangbisa village, a traditional community of the high Himalayan range, is spread over a gently sloping landscape covered by mixed coniferous trees and rhododendron bushes, against a panorama of the Himalayas. At an altitude of 2,500 to 3,000 metres, the three dozen or so families of hardy farmers are adjusting from a simple life – growing wheat, mustard, turnip and radish, rearing livestock – to a modern suburb.

An increasingly prominent tableland above the Paro valley, Pangbisa sits on the confluence of four sacred nyes (sites):

To the north is the exotic Chomolhari peak, 7,326 m (24,035 ft) from where Goddess Jomo watches over Bhutan’s livestock. Chomolhari is the source of glacial rivers and streams which flow into the vast plains of India.

The western ridge is crowned by the Ugyen Guru Lhakhang that overlooks the valley. It was where Terton (Treasure Revealer) Sherab Mebar meditated in the 15th century.

To the east is Dongkola, citadel of Dongkar Tsen, the unyielding guardian deity of Dongkarla. This site was blessed and sanctified by Terton Tshering Dorji, incarnation of Pema Lingpa.

On the south, the ridges roll down the foothills of southern Bhutan towards the flatlands Gelephu, now emerging as a new gateway to the world.

Pangbisa is changing the pace of the country’s development and empowering a new generation of Bhutanese people. It is altering the lifestyle of traditional farmers through the process of modernisation and creating a Bhutanese community of the 21st century.

Over the past decade, the Pangbisa plateau has grown into a unique national landmark in Bhutan’s transformation. The new pinnacle is the Dungkar Dzong which houses the Druk Gyalpo’s Institute, seven lhakhangs with monk caretakers, and a world standard convention wing to host international conferences and exchange. Not far from the dzong is the modern campus of Bhutan’s first law school, the Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law.

Dungkar Dzong

Dungkar Dzong was named by His Majesty The King, drawing a connection with Dungkar village in the northeastern district of Lhuntse, home of the Wangchuck dynasty. Dungkar village was so named because it resembles the white conch from which sound travels in all directions, connoting the spread of the dharma in all directions.

Bhutan has come to know a King who builds dreams into reality with a personal touch. The Dungkar Dzong took form under the close supervision of His Majesty, a vision which merged a futuristic interior into an ancient façade.

The structure is a display of traditional materials and skills. Massive stone slabs from the Paro region and sturdy wood blocks from Bhutan’s temperate valleys are fitted together by zows (woodworkers) with age-old dexterity. The all-Bhutanese team of builders and carpenters were amazed by their own enhanced precision and efficiency as they learnt mechanised techniques, completing a task in about seven years what would have been a lifetime of work.

The dzong’s four entrances are protected by the guardian deities of the four directions and steps into the dzong represent a passage of time. The flights of stone slabs, not different from the ones that monks used in medieval times, climb and usher the visitor, through traditional arches, into the 21st century.

The design and layout inside the dzong is different from traditional dzongs with its innovative use of creative space and modern amenities. The bulk is reduced and space is expanded by the design, and movement facilitated by technology which includes six elevators. Four flagstone courtyards denote a central administrative section, the school courtyard, a covered “Founder’s Hall”, and an elevated west courtyard. Interspersed among them are the temples, library and classrooms, a Vajrayana research and publication section, and furnished spaces for events and functions.

Around the dzong recreation parks, mixed gardens, and lawns share the 600-acre campus with a traditional archery range as well as ruins of an old Lhakhang and farmhouses. The high-end sports facilities include a multipurpose hall for indoor sports, a football stadium, a swimming pool, and athletics tracks, all tailored for global events.

The disabled-friendly campus is equipped with modern facilities including whole-campus wifi. The institution accommodates students and faculty in rammed-earth dormitories and houses. They dine in a hall that showcases Glue Laminated Timber – a timber technology that is growing rapidly, especially in the face of climate change issues.

Education

His Majesty The King has explained that the idea of developing a home-grown education system was drawn from His Majesty Drukgyal Zhipa’s perspective that there is no greater place to learn and be educated than in one’s own country. What you learn from external systems and education abroad can only add to what you already know about yourself and your country.

Prioritising the empowerment of the people, His Majesty The King has issued a Royal Decree for education reform. His Majesty started The Royal Academy in Pangbisa to develop and apply new and innovative education ideas. This initiative has grown into the development of the Bhutan Baccalaureate to ensure an indigenously developed world-class curriculum that will reform the education system and make it relevant to the world today.

The Bhutan Baccalaureate is developed by the Druk Gyalpo’s Institute through its three centres: the Education Research Centre; the Teacher Development Centre; and The Royal Academy. The Institute highlights His Majesty The King’s recognition of the critical role of education in enriching the lives of Bhutanese citizens, nurturing successive generations of leaders, and bridging social and economic disparities to build a just and harmonious society.

The conference wing has already hosted national and international conferences and a major Bhutan Innovation Forum is scheduled for the first week of October.

Conclusion

The Pangbisa phenomenon is a Royal vision that blends an ancient past and exciting future. Bhutan’s spiritual and architectural traditions, important elements of the unique Bhutanese identity, are embodied in a magnificent dzong which is conceived and built as an illustration of the changing times. The atmosphere traditionally created to nurture monks to enlightenment through traditional monastic education is now home to the Bhutan Baccalaureate and international discourse. These progressive trends converge in the process of nation-building in a changing world.

This is the transformation of Bhutan – a Royal legacy for the future.

Contributed by

Dasho Kinley Dorji

As the World Health Organization (WHO) reports a disturbing rise in mpox cases across Asia, the need for vigilance and action is urgent. With close to a thousand confirmed cases and a dozen deaths since July 2022, the outbreak, which has already claimed lives in Thailand, is a glaring reminder of the vulnerability we face. While Bhutan has yet to report any cases, complacency is not an option. The rapid spread of this virus, coupled with its ability to cause severe illness and death, demands immediate and decisive action.

The Ministry of Health’s activation of the Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) is a critical first step in safeguarding our nation. Currently in the ALERT phase, the HEOC is poised to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that we are prepared to respond swiftly if the threat escalates. However, we must recognise that this is not merely a drill. The activation of the HEOC signifies the gravity of the situation and the real possibility that we could soon face our own mpox cases.

The Department of Public Health (DoPH) and the Royal Centre for Disease Control (RCDC) have rightly prioritised enhancing surveillance systems, particularly at points of entry. This focus on early detection is crucial. We have seen from the experiences of our neighbouring countries that delayed responses can lead to rapid and uncontrollable outbreaks. The emphasis on monitoring travellers and working with airlines and media outlets to disseminate critical information is commendable, but it is just the beginning.

The potential for mpox to spread quickly across borders is alarming, especially considering the high mobility of people in the region. Bhutan’s geographic proximity to countries already affected by mpox makes us particularly vulnerable. While efforts to raise awareness and educate the population on preventive measures are underway, these must be intensified. The general public needs to understand the seriousness of the threat and the importance of adhering to recommended safety protocols.

Strengthening our health infrastructure is non-negotiable. The ministry’s plans to equip isolation facilities, ensure the availability of vaccines, and enhance laboratory and diagnostic capacities must be expedited. The virus has proven to be highly contagious, and without proper isolation and treatment facilities, an outbreak could have devastating consequences. Moreover, the availability of personal protective equipment and comprehensive training for healthcare workers are essential to prevent the spread of the virus within medical facilities, which could lead to catastrophic outcomes.

As we continue to follow the Standing Recommendations of the WHO Director-General, particularly those regarding epidemiological surveillance and genomic sequencing, we must remain vigilant. This is not a time for half-measures or complacency. The virus does not respect borders, and neither should our preparedness efforts.

Bhutan has successfully navigated public health crises before, but each new threat requires renewed commitment and resolve. The lessons learned from past experiences must inform our current strategy. Mpox may not yet be within our borders, but the risk is real and present. We must act now to ensure that when it does arrive, we are not caught off guard.

Vigilance, preparedness, and swift action will determine whether we can avoid the worst of this outbreak. Let us not wait for the first case to sound the alarm—by then, it may be too late.

The recent lifting of Bhutan’s vehicle import moratorium, while intended to stimulate economic growth, has inadvertently highlighted a growing crisis of affordability and equality in the country. This policy, coupled with exorbitant vehicle taxes, threatens to exacerbate the exodus of Bhutan’s most talented professionals and widen the already concerning gap between the rich and poor.

Article 7(13) and Article 9(1) and (2) mandate the state to ensure quality of life for all citizens and promote conditions enabling Gross National Happiness. These provisions reinforce non-discrimination and align with our constitutional principles. However, the growing inaccessibility of private transportation for most Bhutanese directly conflicts with these ideals.

The stark reality of vehicle affordability in Bhutan is alarming. According to the National Statistics Bureau, the mean monthly household expenditure in Bhutan is Nu. 52,813. Contrast this with Australia, where the average monthly salary in 2024 is approximately AUD 7,600 (roughly Nu. 423,000). This disparity becomes even more striking when considering vehicle costs. In Bhutan, even a basic family car can cost several million ngultrums, often exceeding five years’ worth of an average household’s income.

Consider the plight of professional civil servants, many of whom earn as little as fifty thousand ngultrums per month. The report reveals that housing rent alone consumes about 37 percent of monthly income for many. Now, factor in that the cheapest car would cost more than their entire annual income. For lower-income civil servants and workers in other sectors, the prospect of owning a family car becomes a multi-year sacrifice of every earning—an unrealistic proposition for most.

The government’s argument about traffic congestion as justification is misleading. Only one or two towns in Bhutan face traffic issues, while the rest of the country is becoming increasingly deserted, suffering from a lack of adequate public transport services. The BLSS 2022 data showing that only 5 percent of students use public transport underscores this dire need for improved services.

Financial inclusivity is another key area for reform. The NSB data shows that bank loans are the most common source of funds (35.9% of loans), and financial inclusivity is a major challenge. Many lower-income Bhutanese struggle to access affordable financing. Financial institutions are reluctant to provide any financial services without collaterals such as land or properties which must in urban areas only. 

The 13th Five Year Plan’s ambitious goal of transforming Bhutan into “a high-income country driven by innovation and sustainability” seems increasingly out of reach under current conditions. The government must urgently reassess its vehicle tax policy if it is serious about achieving this plan. The government’s efforts to attract Bhutanese expatriates back home, particularly from countries like Australia, are likely to falter in the face of such economic realities. More alarmingly, this situation may accelerate the departure of more productive and professional Bhutanese in search of better opportunities abroad as they find themselves unable to afford even basic amenities like a small family car. The risk of Bhutan becoming a nation predominantly populated by the very young and the elderly is real and imminent.

The government must act swiftly to address the vehicle affordability crisis. This calls for a multi-faceted approach-implementing income-based vehicle taxation, improving nationwide public transportation, and providing accessible vehicle financing options. GNH can become a reality for all Bhutanese, regardless of economic status, if we can align our policies with constitutional mandates and social protection goals.

Sonam Tshering

Lawyer, Thimphu

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are author’s own

Entirely funded by the government, the BITS project will cost over Nu 1 billion

Thukten Zangpo

Following unforeseen delays and technical hiccups, the Department of Revenue and Customs (DRC) under the finance ministry has outsourced the development of Bhutan Integrated Tax System (BITS) to New Zealand’s leading tech business, Data Torque Limited.

With the agreement between DRC and Data Torque Limited signed yesterday, the BITS is expected to be fully operational by 2029.

Among three international tech companies that  participated in the international competitive bidding process, the Data Torque Limited was selected for its expertise in customising commercial off the shelf (COTS) solutions.

An independent evaluation technical committee composed of officials from DRC, Department of Procurement and Properties, and GovTech evaluated the bidding documents.

According to the DRC, the system will feature real-time data processing, automated tax filing, e-invoicing, and a user-friendly interface for taxpayers.

The development of the BITS will take five years, with three years for implementation and two years as warranty period or pilot testing.

The project will be executed in three phases – development of Goods and Service Tax (GST) within 12 months, non-tax and tax deducted at source within the next six months, and direct tax within the following 12 months.

The BITS project, entirely funded by the government, will cost over Nu 1 billion.

The DRC’s director general, Sonam Jamtsho, said that the project is a transformative lead in the tax administration that will broaden taxpayers base, enhance resource mobilisation from domestic resources, and elevate overall quality of taxpayers’ services.

Despite resource constraints and economic challenges, he said that the government places a high level of importance on the successful implementation of BITS. “The government recognises the critical role that a modern and efficient tax system plays in supporting the country’s long-term development goals.”

Sonam Jamtsho said that BITS is critical as it is required to enable the rollout of the GST, which will help broaden the taxpayer base.

The GST Act , passed in 2020, facilitates the implementation of  a consumption-based single seven percent tax system that will subsume the sales tax and modify the excise system.

Sonam Jamtsho added that BITS will also improve compliance and encourage greater participation from businesses and individuals and  improve taxpayer services through better interfaces and seamless integration with other government agencies, offering a one-stop platform for all taxpayer services.

The BITS will replace the RAMIS system, providing more efficient and effective tools for tax administration.

The director of the Data Torque Limited, Bill Chatwin, said that tax allows the government to collect essential government revenue, and a well-functioning tax system is fundamental to any country’s economy and society. “A reliable tax system is critical to building local communities and making the country more resilient to external shocks”.

The Commissioner of BITS and GST Project, DRC, Kuenzang Thinley, said that the current tax-related systems are scattered such as eCMS, and property tax, among others. “BITS will integrate all these systems.”

Earlier, as per the 2017-18 estimates, the government was expected to recoup an additional Nu 3 billion with the implementation of the BITS.

The DRC expects the revenue collection to increase as  the per 2022-23 estimates.

Commissioner Kuenzang Thinley said that the system could resolve the country’s short-term borrowings in terms of treasury bills as the system will enable steady monthly cash flow.

The National Assembly in the summer session 2022 passed the Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill of Bhutan 2022, with its implementation scheduled after the tax system is ready.

The GST Act 2020 will come into force from the day the Parliament approves for enforcement when the BITS is ready.

KP Sharma

The government’s announcement to establish a Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) school in Tama has reignited excitement and hope among the people of Zhemgang.

Their renewed hope stems from the government’s plan to convert a long-idle facility into a vocational education centre, finally resolving the uncertainty about its future use.

The facility, formerly the Prince Namgyel Wangchuck Academy, was acquired by the government for Nu 64.977 million.

The previous government had proposed converting the facility into a vocational centre or general school after the Parliament approved starting a college under the 12th Plan.

Following the purchase, the government carried out renovations in 2022, spending an additional Nu 16 million on water supply maintenance and the construction of extra toilets in the academic blocks and girls’ hostel.

However, despite the school’s readiness, the plan did not materialise due to an insufficient number of students in the area.

Education Minister Yeezang De Thapa said that the ministry is currently finalising the courses and overall details of the school. She also said that Tama was chosen to support the future workforce of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.

A former Member of Parliament acknowledged that while the idea is sound, it is crucial for the government to introduce new courses that are relevant to current and future needs to ensure the school’s relevance and sustainability.

He highlighted the importance of avoiding course duplication and instead focusing on high-end programmes that would attract youth interest, thereby helping to revive the perception of TVET among young people.

“The general perception among the youth about TVET needs to be changed with newer courses,” he said.

Nangkor Gup Singye Wangchuk said that while the school would greatly benefit the dzongkhag, it would also create market opportunities for farmers and boost economic activities in Zhemgang and the neighbouring gewogs of Sarpang.

He credited the outcome to consistent follow-up by the Dzongkhag Tshogdu. Singye Wangchuk emphasised the importance of good road connectivity, given that the school will link Gelephu and Zhemgang.

He assured that the local government would support efforts to improve the highway for the benefit of the people.

Although the infrastructure has been repaired and is ready to host the school, some facilities may still require minor renovations and other improvements to fully accommodate the new institution.

Sherab Lhamo

The government is integrating blockchain technology across various sectors through the Bhutan NDI initiative to harness its benefits of security, decentralisation, transparency, and immutability.

A GovTech official said the potential of blockchain technology will help improve public services in various sectors. By leveraging blockchain’s decentralisation and immutability, the government aims to enhance data integrity and security in areas such as healthcare, land management, and education.

In healthcare, blockchain can be used to ensure the traceability and authenticity of medications, promote preventive medical care, and facilitate the development of virtual healthcare platforms.

In land management, blockchain can streamline land administration, reduce fraud, corruption and errors commonly associated with traditional land registries, and automate processes like property transfers and tax payments.

In education, blockchain can secure student records, certificates, and other sensitive information while also enabling online learning systems and improving overall efficiency and security of the education system.

What is blockchain?

The senior manager of Bhutan NDI, Suprit Pradhan, said that blockchain is a distributed ledger, meaning it is an interconnected database that records information in blocks, creating a chain of data. “Once information is recorded in a block, it is difficult to change or remove, ensuring data integrity and security.”

He added that it is a collection of data which is interlinked to each other and backed by different servers operating globally.

Unlike traditional databases that rely on a central server, blockchain operates across multiple computers. Data is encrypted and protected through a consensus mechanism involving multiple computers, making it nearly impossible to tamper with or delete information, though it remains verifiable by anyone on the network.

Multiple computers in the network verify the block’s validity. Once verified, the block is added to the existing blockchain. Each block contains information, including a timestamp, transaction data, and a reference to the previous block. This creates a chain of records that is extremely difficult to alter.

The associate director at Druk Holding and Investments, Pema Wangchug, said that while blockchain technology may seem complex, understanding its value and benefits is crucial.

Comparing blockchain to a car, he said that while one doesn’t need to understand how the engine works to appreciate its utility, understanding blockchain’s decentralised nature is crucial for recognising its security benefits and its ability to distribute information widely.

A backend developer of Bhutan NDI, Kinzang Dorji, said that using a decentralised system where data is stored and verified across multiple computers, Bhutan NDI benefits from blockchain in terms of scalability, security, and user privacy. “Blockchain enables information to be distributed fully, reducing the risk of data breaches,” he said. “It also empowers users to have control over their personal information.”

Jigmi Wangdi

The Bhutan Cancer Society (BCS) yesterday launched the Phamai Doonghing (Parents’ Heart) support group to offer psychosocial assistance and prepare parents of children or adolescents with cancer before they travel abroad for treatment.

The initiative to establish the support group was a unanimous decision made by the organisation’s core parents’ group. The members of this group are parents who have faced and overcome challenges while attending to their children’s treatment in Calcutta.

Chimi Dema, who spent a year in Calcutta as an attendant, shared that a significant problem parents encounter is the communication barrier with doctors.

“Most of the attendants come from rural areas in western and eastern Bhutan and often do not speak English or Hindi. This language barrier creates significant delays in patient treatment,” Chimi Dema said.

Chimi Dema further noted that the attendants face various challenges, including difficulties with accommodation, access to blood units, and the cumbersome process of undergoing multiple checkups during treatment.

“The guesthouse in Calcutta operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has only 22 units. As a result, attendants often need to find alternative accommodation, which can be very costly, especially since many do not have a stable source of income. Attendants receive a monthly allowance of around Nu 7,500, which is barely sufficient to cover food and other necessities, let alone accommodation,” Chimi Dema said.

In addition to financial difficulties, Chimi Dema highlighted the emotional strain on parents, who endure the stress of knowing their child may not survive. She added that doctors in Calcutta frequently report receiving cancer patients only when the disease is in its final stages, at which point treatment options are severely limited.

These challenges often lead to severe emotional distress among parents, many of whom are unprepared to cope with such situations. Chimi Dema herself experienced depression during this time.

“Most attendants who accompany their children for treatment are mothers, many of whom lack formal education. This makes their situation even more difficult,” Chimi added.

She emphasized that while patients are provided with psychiatric support, attendants also need similar assistance from counselors. Tshering Yuden has faced similar challenges.

Tshering Yuden also faced significant challenges. She noted that difficulties are not limited to experiences abroad.

“I struggled after returning home, especially during the pandemic when it was nearly impossible to contact the doctor responsible for my child’s treatment. Other doctors also refused to meet with me, claiming it was beyond their authority,” Tshering shared.

To prevent other parents from facing similar hardships, Chimi and Tshering are hopeful that the parent support group will effectively prepare and assist families of children suffering from cancer.

“We never received any emotional support and had to manage on our own. We want to ensure that no other parent endures the same hardships during such difficult times,” the women shared.

Tshering Yuden plans to return to her village to raise awareness about the importance of timely medical intervention. “Many people in villages rely on rituals or offerings before seeking medical help. I want to advocate against this practice to ensure that children receive prompt treatment,” Tshering said.

Karma Tobgay, Executive Director of BCS, emphasized the organization’s commitment to assisting patients. “We are dedicated to helping navigate the treatment process efficiently. We ensure that patients receive timely checkups and assist those who are unsure of what steps to take,” he said.

Karma Tobgay added that the support group will play a crucial role in raising awareness and bringing together parents of young cancer patients, ensuring that they receive emotional and psychosocial support from those like Chimi and Tshering who have firsthand experience.

“We are also planning outreach programs in four districts. We will visit early childhood care and development centers and gewogs in Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Dagana, and Zhemgang to meet parents and raise awareness about adolescent cancer,” Karma Tobgay said.

He also said that BCS would develop pamphlets detailing common symptoms for parents to watch for and create comprehensive guidelines for the parent support group.

Most adolescent cancer cases reported to BCS are leukemia or blood cancer. The national cancer registry recorded a total of 58 cancer cases in children aged 0 to 14 years between 2019 and 2022, with 26 cases in males and 32 in females.

The initiative to establish the parent support group is supported by Save the Children Bhutan and funded by the European Union.

How two stroke survivors are managing the vagaries of their lives

Jigmi Wangdi

Thirty-two-year-old Kesang woke up early to a pleasant morning in January, 2009. As usual, she went about her daily morning ritual – offering water at the altar and preparing breakfast for her family. While in the kitchen, she felt a sudden, piercing pain in her head, and then, everything went dark.

“I do not remember much of what happened afterwards,” says Kesang.

Now 47-years-old, the mother of three children had suffered a stroke, or brain attack, as it is often referred to in common parlance. Thanks to the quick response from her family and medical treatment at the national referral hospital, she was saved.

But her life was never the same again. 

It took her hundreds of physiotherapy sessions combined with an enormous level of grit and determination to be able to walk properly on her own and do normal chores.

“It was really hard in the beginning. I needed the support of people around me to walk,” she says.

She was fortunate to have her husband by her side in times of need. “My husband has been my biggest source of support. He was there to take care of me, propping me up, giving me hope and strength.”

Kesang said that she was not aware of stroke until it happened to her.  Although she had high blood pressure since she was 22 years old and doctors had advised her to take medication, she didn’t take it seriously.  “If only I had listened to the doctors, I would not have had to go through this.”

Today, Kesang goes for walks to the Memorial Chorten and is able to walk by herself to the hospital for checkups – a simple pleasure which she shared was not possible before and what many may take for granted.

More than a decade apart, Dawa Choden, 39, suffered a stroke in 2021. She was an active de-suup during the pandemic, and had little inkling of what might strike her. 

That fateful day, she had just got into her car and ignited the car engine. Then, her vision blurred and she had trouble speaking.  That was her last memory before she lost consciousness. 

When she woke up, she found herself at the hospital. Only then she was told that she had suffered a stroke.

“My de-suup friends had taken me to the hospital and called my husband,” she says. “I could not move my arms or legs, even months after being discharged from the hospital.”

Dawa Choden had to undergo a rigorous routine of physiotherapy to recover. “I thought I would be paralysed my whole life,” she says. 

She can walk on her own, which is a big improvement from how she was right after the stroke. However, there are still times when she loses her balance and falls.

The Bhutan Stroke Foundation (BSF) has been crucial in providing critical care and services to stroke survivors and patients.

Both Dawa Choden and Kesang shared that BSF played a pivotal role in educating and nurturing stroke survivors and caregivers. And now, both of them are actively creating awareness on stroke among friends and families to make sure they do not suffer their fate.

The risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, and smoking, among others.

The National Health Survey (NHS) 2023 revealed a high prevalence of risk factors among the Bhutanese population.

The survey found that the rate of raised blood pressure increased from 28 percent in 2019 to 30.3 percent in 2023.  In addition, physical inactivity has almost tripled, with the prevalence rising from 6 percent in 2014 to 18.3 percent in 2023.

The study also found that the average salt intake is 8.5 grammes per day, exceeding the World Health Organisation’s recommended limit of 5 grammes per day.

A consultant general surgeon and neurosurgeon, Dr (Colonel) Tashi Tenzin, identified high blood pressure and heart disease as major causes of stroke. “Intake of high salt diet, smoking, lack of physical exercise, alcohol, and obesity also cause stroke.”

The signs and symptoms of stroke can be remembered using the acronym ‘BE-FAST’: B for loss of balance, E for vision problems, F for facial drooping, A for arm weakness, S for speech difficulties, and T for time to seek medical help.

“If any of the above signs and symptoms are identified, it means one might be suffering from a stroke and need to be rushed to the nearest hospital. Some may suffer from severe headaches and some may even lose consciousness,” Dr Tashi Tenzin said.

Thinley Namgay

A three-storey traditional structure stands alone on a gentle slope near terraced paddy fields and a river bend in Kabesa, north of Thimphu, with vivid signs of urban sprawl inching closer all around. At a glance, this house looks like any other old, abandoned Bhutanese home, beguiling the fact that it is a 17th-century structure that has withstood the test of time.

Covered with a temporary roof, the outer walls of the house, measuring  10.5 m wide by 10.1 m deep at the bottom, and 10m tall are all earth rammed. The exterior walls slightly lean inward, which is a common traditional construction technique, to stabilise the structure.

As per the records, the house in Kabesa, which belongs to private individual Lham Pelzom, was built around the 17th century – almost four hundred years ago. 

This structure is among the three oldest vernacular rammed-earth houses in the country that   the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DCDD) and the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (TOBUNKEN) are collaborating to conserve.

Lham Pelzom’s son Pema Lethro said that the house was not renovated after the roof was damaged and left unattended for more than two decades because of financial constraints. 

The family currently lives at their new house built near the old structure.  “This house is important for our family as it has served almost five generations of our family. It also showcases continuity of our family and the architectural prowess of our forefathers,” Pema Lethro said. “We are thankful for the DCDD and the team from Japan for helping us.”

According to DCDD, the early vernacular structures are characterised by fewer or no openings other than doors, thicker walls, and steeper slopes compared to those built in later periods. “Rammed-earth houses offer insights into our cultural heritage such as history, construction techniques, architectural evolution, and lifestyle of ancestors, among others,” a DCDD official said. 

DCDD considers Bhutan’s old farmhouses as a crucial part of national heritage similar to dzongs, lhakhangs, and other heritage buildings.  The department is working on preserving these heritage buildings and ancient structures in line with international norms and practices.

“We also want to raise public awareness on the significance of vernacular houses as vital cultural heritage and emphasise the importance of their conservation and preservation,” said the official. 

The old structure in Kabesa was abandoned in 2011 after the 2009 earthquake severely affected most of its structure. Left without care, its roof and flooring collapsed in 2017.   

The DCDD and TOBUNKEN team began salvaging and cataloguing the timbers for future restoration efforts.     

While the restoration works were disrupted by the  Covid-19 pandemic, the DCDD installed temporary roofing in 2020 to protect the building from further deterioration. 

Between August 13 and 22 this year, architects, engineers, and master carpenters from DCDD and TOBUNKEN identified the original placement of timber materials (both structural and non-structural), assessed the conditions of the timbers, and determined whether they can be reused. 

If full reuse is not possible, the team plans to explore how the old timbers can be integrated with new ones (joinery details) and strengthen the structural capacity without compromising the authenticity of the materials. 

The team found that floor joists and roofing materials had suffered significant damage. Most of the wooden components were constructed from dung shing (fir trees). Some of the materials can be reused.

The plan is to retain as much of the existing timber as possible, provided it can be reused. Additionally, fir trees will be used in the restoration.

The complete restoration and rehabilitation plans for the house are yet to be finalised.

DCDD’s architect, Tashi Wangchuk, said that any items that have been decayed, missing, or have not retained their original shape will be replaced with materials of the same quality.

“Both traditional documentation methods and modern technology, such as scaniverse, are used to document accurate records and finalise the conservation plan for the heritage house, as well as to prepare a project cost estimate,” Tashi Wangchuk said.

The Japanese master carpenters and nine experienced zopoens (master  carpentarss) from the DCDD’s conservation projects are working on this mission to conserve the structure. 

“This collaboration also provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge and skills, enhancing the technical skills of Bhutanese artisans in conservation practices,” Tashi Wangchuk said. 

The conservation of Kabesa house was planned in 2017, followed by re-survey in 2018.

The other two living rammed-earth houses are Haa Talung house and Punakha’s Changjokha house.  The renovation  of Haa Talung house was completed in 2023. 

The  structure of Punakha’s  Changjokha house is stable and no structural intervention was required according to DCDD. However, the rehabilitation proposal has been already completed by the department and submitted to the government.

..as the first Bhutanese women club to play at AFC

Thinley Namgay   

The Royal Thimphu College (RTC) Women’s FC, which was formed less than two years in 2022, is set to be the first women’s football club from Bhutan to play at the prestigious first edition of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Champions League.   

The preliminary round for Asia’s top-tier women’s football club competition among Group D  teams will be held at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu  between August 25 and 31.   

RTC Women’s FC will host two formidable competitors – Iran’s Bam Khatoon FC and Hong Kong’s (China) Kitchee SC. These two opponents have arrived in the capital. 

RTC FC will face Bam Khatoon FC on August 25 and Kitchee SC on August 28.   

The preliminary round has 13 clubs participating from countries across Asia. They are the winners of their respective national women league 2023. 

RTC FC’s head coach, Jigme, is optimistic about the upcoming matches considering the team’s consistent training for almost a year, and the performance of the team in the ongoing BoB National Women’s Football League. RTC FC is leading the league.

To strengthen the squad, RTC FC has signed four players from Bangladesh in attacking, midfield, and flank positions. “We have included new players and recently played against the Transport United Ladies in the ongoing women’s league. My team won 5-1. The presence of international players has boosted the team’s confidence,” Jigme said.

RTC FC has 14 national players. The Bangladeshi players will be featured in the first 11.

Coach Jigme said that there are only few online resources available for learning about the opponents, so he isn’t very familiar with their game tactics. However, he believes that if RTC FC plays confidently and cohesively as they usually do, they have a strong chance of defeating their opponents and advancing to the group stage. “The weather and the home spectators could also assist in boosting the morale of the players,” Coach Jigme said.

He added that RTC FC competing in the AFC Championship is a major achievement for Bhutan and reflects a positive trend in the development of women’s football in the country. “The tournament serves  as a platform  to showcase the skills of Bhutanese women footballers besides encouraging young women to pursue football.” 

RTC FC players are optimistic about their upcoming matches. 

Striker for RTC FC, Deki Lhazom, said that while she has represented Bhutan in many international games, the AFC Championship holds a special place. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with all the top women’s teams coming together,” she said.

She is confident in her team’s preparation and also believes that the home advantage will help them perform well.     

The AFC Women’s Champions League will feature 21 teams, with the top eight clubs from Japan, Australia, China, South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Chinese Taipei, and Thailand advancing directly to the group stage.

The top four teams from the preliminary round will join these eight teams, forming three groups of four teams each, competing from October 6 to 12. The quarter finals are scheduled in March, with the semifinals and the finals to follow in May.

Changyul Park serves as a model for future green initiatives in the capital

YK Poudel

His Majesty the King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and members of the Royal Family graced the inauguration of Changyul Park in Changzamtok, Thimphu yesterday morning.

The Prime Minister and senior government officials, and the various teams involved in building the park, including Desuups who have worked on the park for over two years, also attended the event.

In the afternoon, invitees from a cross section of society were shown around the expansive park grounds. A concert was held in the evening, featuring popular Bhutanese artists and dancers who have been trained by De-Suung Skilling Programme Dance programme.

More than 1,000 people visited the park on the first day.

Changyul Park opened to public yesterday

Changyul Park, spanning seven-acres along the Wangchhu river corridor, a gift from His Majesty the King to the people of Thimphu and those visiting the capital, represents a substantial investment of over Nu 150 million, involving over 300 Desuups who worked for more than 18 months on the development of the park.

The director for the Department of Human Settlement, Tashi Penjor, said that the park is not just a normal park but a celebration of Bhutanese culture, architecture and identity in the urban space. “We are hopeful that the residents will make the best use of it along with taking accountability of its cleanliness and management.”

The department, he said, has plans to create more of such recreational parks across the thromde and other peri-urban centres.

One of the visitors, Sonam Deki, said that a truck parking space has been transformed into a beautiful, vibrant park. “This really is a huge gift from the King to our children and people living in the capital,” she said.

And ever since her children have been at the park, they have been frolicking around for hours. “Having such parks across all thromdes would provide a vital space for recreation and cultural engagement, while also serving as a tourist attraction in those areas,” she added.

Designed to honour Bhutanese heritage while incorporating modern green infrastructure, Changyul Park features traditional architectural elements such as stone boundary walls, river edges, and traditional gates. These elements integrate seamlessly with contemporary design aspects to create an aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive space.

Key features of Changyul Park include meadows and riverside gallery, community hub, adventure play area and outdoor gym, arboretum and rose garden, and riverfront amenities.

The northern meadows provide expansive lawns suitable for picnics, events, and outdoor activities, equipped with necessary utilities. The riverside gallery offers a tranquil area for relaxation and enjoyment of the river views.

Centrally located within the park, the Community Hub comprises a cafeteria, outdoor deck, performance plaza, and underground restrooms, serving as a focal point for community gatherings and events.

The adventure play area and outdoor gym includes a nature-based play area for children, featuring structures like spider webs and rope bridges, alongside an outdoor gym equipped with fitness stations for adults.

The arboretum showcases over 50 native plant species while the Rose Garden, Thimphu’s largest, provides picturesque settings framed by views of the Bazam, Talakha, and Wangditse Lhakhang.

Riverfront amenities include an elevated, arc-shaped boardwalk and a jogging bridge that offer panoramic views of the Wangchhu. The Floating Bar, constructed with intricate timber techniques, provides a cozy venue for visitors.

The park emphasises sustainability through features such as energy-efficient lighting embedded in natural rocks and artistically crafted lampposts.

A one-kilometre loop of jogging tracks, walking paths, and elevated bridges connect the park’s various sections, promoting active lifestyles.

Additionally, the mini mobility hub includes electric-vehicle charging stations, public parking, and bus stops, integrating the park into Thimphu’s low-emission transport network.

Located at the junction where the river meets the community, Changyul Park presents a unique convergence of people, nature, and water. Its design masterfully integrates Bhutanese cultural elements with modern, resilient features, creating a space that respects and reflects local heritage while embracing contemporary needs.

The park emphasises sustainability through features such as energy-efficient lighting embedded in natural rocks and artistically crafted lampposts.

It also aligns with the Green Infrastructure and Open Space Master Plan of the Thimphu Structure Plan 2023-2040. Changyul Park contributes to environmental sustainability through carbon sequestration and enhanced open spaces.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, in collaboration with His Majesty’s Secretariat, the Royal Commission for Urban Development, De-Suung Office and Thimphu Thromde has constructed this park.

A diverse team of architects, urban planners, engineers, and over 130 workers contributed to transforming a previously vacant land area into a multifunctional green space intended to serve residents, tourists, and visitors.

The Changyul Park is expected to enhance the quality of life for Thimphu’s residents and serve as a model for future green initiatives in the capital. The Park is a royal initiative of His Majesty the King.

YK Poudel

Germination problems, timeliness of sowing, care after germination, mechanisation knowledge, damage caused by rainfall, frost and birds are among the top issues facing quinoa farming in Bhutan.

These issues were discussed during the two-day Quinoa Production and Breeding workshop held at the National Centre for Organic Agriculture (NCOA), which was attended by 20 quinoa specialists from various agriculture research centres across the country and relevant agencies.

The Department of Agriculture (DoA), with technical and funding assistance from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Bhutan, has set an ambitious goal to produce 250 metric tonnes (MT) of quinoa on 1,000 acres of land in 14 dzongkhags in the first year of the 13th Plan.

By the end of the next five years, about 4,000 households will be engaged across 4,000 acres of agricultural land, producing 2,360 MT of quinoa.

Quinoa, known as Ashi Mo in the east and Rani Bethu in the south, is a nutritious cereal with high export potential, adaptable to different agro-ecological zones. Quinoa can be rotated with crops like potatoes, maize, paddy, wheat, and vegetables.

Last year, the country produced 13 MT of quinoa on 28 acres of farmland cultivated by 223 farmers.

From Pg 1

Bhutan had 1,377 quinoa growers in 2020, but market challenges such as low value and price discouraged farmers from continuing quinoa cultivation.

As part of the Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC) project, titled “Productivity enhancement of priority crops through piloting and upscaling of tailored, innovative, climate-resilient, and sustainable agricultural practices in South Asian countries”, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Nepal initiated a project in March this year worth USD one million. The project is set to conclude in December next year.

Bhutan is allocated USD 200,000 from the total FVC project amount. Another USD 6 million has been allocated for training and capacity development.

Currently, the country is piloting 10 percent of total quinoa production in various hospitals and school feeding programmes, involving multiple agencies.

Specialist Tirtha Bahadur Katwal at the National Centre for Organic Agriculture (NCOA) in Yusipang said that the government has prioritised quinoa as a high-value crop, with all research centers and relevant agencies working collaboratively.

Favorable policies have been implemented, such as prioritising quinoa for school feeding programmes and hospitals, involving the Farm Machinery Corporation Limited as an aggregator, maintaining a price guarantee system by the finance ministry, and designating quinoa as the “One Country, One Product” commodity, making it a leading priority crop in the 13th Plan.

“The department’s plan focuses on initiating high-yielding and tri-color varieties that are adaptable,” said Tirtha Bahadur Katwal. “Through the Brand Bhutan initiative, including Geographical Indication and Geographical Indication Environmental Sustainability, we aim to promote the unique value of quinoa, considering environmental aspects.”

He explained that strategies such as the free supply of seeds, buy-back at favorable prices, and support for processing machines are among the initiatives taken so far. “While challenges at production, post-production, and marketing stages exist, opportunities in post-production and marketing are promising.”

Quinoa is well-suited to the southern lowlands and interior highlands. “The issue in higher elevations is the short growing season, but sowing at the right time can help achieve better yields,” he said.

Namgay Wangdi, a quinoa expert who previously worked with the Agriculture Research and Development Centre in Wengkhar, said that nine varieties have been tested in the country since its introduction in 2015, four of which are thriving. “Quinoa grows well in six southern dzongkhags, especially in the east, where the temperature ranges between 10°C and 38°C.”

So far, agriculture extension officials and about 500 farmers from 19 gewogs in the east have been trained in quinoa farming. Bartsham in Trashigang produces the highest amount of quinoa.

“While most farmers in the east have their own stored seeds, the ARDC has distributed 2,172.5 kg of seeds so far, with 4,827 kg remaining for interested farmers,” Wangdi said. “The government should provide electric dehusking machines for the convenience of farmers.”

He also noted that the government’s electric and chain-link fencing and irrigation plans are beneficial for crop protection and growth enhancement.

The government has allocated Nu 10.23 billion for the renewable natural resources sector for the financial year 2024-25, including Nu 910.5 million in the 13th Plan for agriculture marketing and cooperatives. Also, 100 percent foreign direct investment in the agriculture sector has been declared starting in June this year, along with other investment plans.

Quinoa can be used to prepare about nine different types of food, with quinoa porridge and pancakes being the most popular.

The workshop, which concludes today, is being facilitated by experts from NCOA, ARDC, and FAO’s regional expert, Dr Hui Zhang.

Yangyel Lhaden

The National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) predicts slightly above normal rainfall with potential for extreme weather events for the remainder of the monsoon season. 

This is according to the NCHM’s latest weather outlook for this season.

The forecast is based on data spanning from 1996 to 2023. The average temperature and rainfall of this period is termed ‘normal’. When figures deviate by up to 10 percent from these averages, they are classified as either ‘slightly above normal’ or ‘slightly below normal’.

This year’s predictions indicate a trend towards slightly above-normal rainfall and temperatures, driven by climate influences such as the La Niña condition and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD).

Earlier in the year, during the 10th National Climate Outlook Forum, NCHM had warned of a challenging summer ahead, with expectations of increased rainfall and higher temperatures due to ongoing climate drivers.

The El Niño-Southern Oscillation is currently neutral. La Niña conditions are anticipated to develop in the following months of September, October, and November, potentially intensifying rainfall. The IOD remains neutral and likely to remain so until November.

The monsoon season in Bhutan typically starts around June 5, with some variation. This year, while some dzongkhags started receiving rainfall in the first week of June, the official onset of the monsoon occurred on June 12, 2024.

In June, the country experienced average rainfall during the first week, with amounts gradually increasing over the following weeks until mid-July. However, rainfall fell below the climatological normal during the last two weeks of July.

By the first two weeks of August, rainfall had returned to normal levels. Average temperatures were typical at the start of the monsoon but rose from the last week of July through early August.

Recent months have witnessed several extreme weather events.

Notable extreme weather events between July and August include a flash flood at Begana Guru Lhakhang stream in Thimphu on July 15, at 3:05 p.m. On August 5, a flash flood occurred at Bumthang Lamay Gonpa stream around 5:00 p.m.

Another flash flood hit Dechenphu stream on August 10 between 2:30pm and 3:00pm. On August 17, heavy rainfall affected Isuna, Paro and Gidakom areas, Thimphu between 2:30pm and 3:00pm.

On August 18, a flash flood in Gangtey, caused by heavy rainfall from Bayta Chhu at 2:00pm, impacted Beta, Gela, and Tokha villages in Gangtey gewog.

An official from the NCHM said that August and September were still monsoon months in the country and due to the country’s geologically young and fragile mountain ecosystem, as well as settlements in river valleys, there is a high vulnerability to landslides, flash floods, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). “Continuous rainfall during the monsoon and heavy rainfall from convective thunderstorms, as seen in recent events, can trigger flash floods.”

Extreme weather events are a potential risk across the country, the official said. “While GLOFs are more common in northern high-altitude areas, heavy rainfall predominantly affects the southern regions. We urge everyone to remain vigilant, stay informed about weather conditions, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.”

Jigmi Wangdi

The Bhutan Film Institute (BFI), a non-profit registered with the Civil Society Organisation Authority, began its first training programme on directing and acting for local filmmakers and actors, to refine and elevate the skills of local filmmakers and talent.

The Executive Director of BFI, Tshering Phuntsho, said that the two trainings were clubbed together because of their correlation. “Directing and acting are deeply interconnected,” he explained. “By addressing both areas in one programme, we hope to enhance the overall quality of storytelling in Bhutanese cinema.”

Tshering Phuntsho said that many local filmmakers and actors have gained their skills through hands-on experience rather than formal education. “Our local talents are learning that there is a vast difference between their field experiences and what they are learning through this training,” he said. “One of our main goals is to provide them with technical knowledge and innovative training to better their craft.”

BFI has multiple trainings planned, including on cinematography, makeup and prosthetics, film production and personal development, among others.

“Our aim is to develop the Bhutanese film industry to a level where it can compete on the global stage. With strong support from our government and relevant agencies, I am confident about our progress,” Tshering Phuntsho said.

The capacity-building training is being carried out by two experts from the Netherlands and the USA.

Beek Groot from the Netherlands is training local filmmakers and actors in directing films.

“In Europe, it’s typical to spend years making short films before transitioning to feature films,” he said. “Here, however, many are already working on feature films, which is something very good about the industry.”

Beek Groot emphasised the importance of storytelling and authenticity in filmmaking. “Good characters are derived from real life, not just imagination,” he explained. “I am helping participants understand how to craft compelling stories and translate them into audio and visual formats. For Bhutanese filmmakers, the goal is to create films that are both original and deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture.”

He added that the local filmmakers will start making films for markets beyond Bhutan.

“A part of the film culture here is that a lot of inspiration is taken from Bollywood. Bollywood films have a different system with much higher budgets. If you try to copy that, you will always lose out,” he said.

He added that his main aim is to enable local filmmakers to see their strengths and understand what makes Bhutan an interesting country. “I am very sure international audiences want to see stories about Bhutan. It’s all about originality and authenticity.”

The capacity building training is a collaboration between BFI and the Department of Media, Creative Industry and Intellectual Property.